ai4bharat/Pralekha huggingface dataset:
Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways
Shipping Minister Sonowal reiterates commitment to enhance share of renewable energy to 60 per cent of power demand at major ports
Union Minister for Ports, Shipping and Waterways Shri Sarbananda Sonowal has said that India intends to increase share of renewable energy to 60% of total power demand of each of its major port from present share of less than 10%. This will be through solar and wind generated power. Virtually addressing the high level session on IMO-Norway Green Voyage 2050 Project in New Delhi today, he said, 50% of port equipment will be electrified by 2030, and all ports shall supply shore power to all visiting ships in a three-phased manner by that time. The ports have also aimed to reduce Carbon emissions per ton of cargo handled by 30% by 2030.
The Minister said, India has always extended support to IMO’s work towards reduction of GHG emissions from shipping by being part of GloMEEP project earlier and now Green Voyage. He said, India is on path to low carbon economy and shipping. The Maritime Vision Document 2030, released by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi is a 10- Year blue print on India’s vision of a sustainable Maritime sector and vibrant blue economy. He informed that India has been selected as the first country under IMO Green Voyage 2050 project for conduct of a pilot project related to Green Shipping.
Shri Sonowal said, India’s Nationally Determined Contributions  under the Paris Agreement for the Period 2021-2030 include: to reduce the emissions intensity of its GDP by 33 to 35 percent by 2030 from 2005 level, and to achieve about 40 percent cumulative electric power installed capacity from Non-fossil fuel based energy resources by 2030 with the help of transfer of technology and low cost international finance. India is well on its way to achieve these targets and has already achieved 24.5% share of Renewable Energy  in total Installed Capacity. Globally, today India stands 4th in RE power capacity, 4th in Wind power, and 5th in Solar Power capacity.
He said, India will be implementing IMO energy efficiency requirements for existing ships and carbon intensity requirements on all its vessels whether coastal or international in order to help achieve IMO GHG reduction targets. India is already supplying shore power to ships with power demand less than 150 KW at present and targeting to supply shore power to all visiting ships. India is working actively at Marine Environmental Protection Committee of IMO to help devise acceptable regulatory requirements for GHG emission reduction in line with IMO GHG initial strategy.
Special Service and Features
India Post warns of fake messages in Social media
India Post over the recent days has been observing various URLs/Websites getting circulated in social media such as WhatsApp, Telegram, Instagram and through emails / SMS containing tiny URLs/ Short URLs, claiming to be providing Government Subsidies through certain surveys, quizzes.
India Post has informed that it is not involved in any such activities like announcing Subsidies, Bonus or Prizes based on Surveys etc. Public receiving such notifications/messages /emails are requested not to believe or respond to such fake and spurious messages or share any personal details. It is also requested not share any personally identifiable information such as date of birth, Account numbers, mobile numbers, place of Birth & OTP etc.,
India Post though is taking necessary action to prevent these URLs / links / Websites to be taken down through various prevention mechanisms. Public at large is once again requested not to believe or respond to any fake / spurious messages / communications / links.
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Ministry of Panchayati Raj
Qualifications for Candidates of Panchayats
Panchayat’, being ‘Local Government’, is a State subject and part of Seventh Schedule of the Constitution of India. Further, Article 243C  of the Constitution of India provides that legislature of a State may, by law, make provisions with respect to the composition of Panchayats. Accordingly, basic requirements for candidature of Sarpanch and members of a Panchayat are governed by the respective Panchayati Raj Acts and rulessubject to the provisions of the Constitution.
The disqualification for being chosen as, and for being, a member of a Panchayat is governed by Article 243F of the Constitution, which inter-alia provides for disqualification under any law made by the legislature of the State. Accordingly, the conditions for disqualification including that of having more than two children may vary from State to State
‘Panchayat’, being ‘Local Government’, is a State subject and part of Seventh Schedule of the Constitution of India. All Panchayat related matters, including financial and other benefits available to Sarpanch and other Panchayat membersare governed by the respective Panchayati Raj Acts and rules. This information is given by Shri Kapil Moreshwar Patil, Minister of State, Panchayati Raj written reply in Rajya Sabha today.
Competition Commission of India
CCI approves acquisition of majority shareholding in B.M.M Ispat Limited by JSW Projects Limited.
The Competition Commission of India  approves proposed combination relating to acquisition of majority shareholding in B.M.M Ispat Limited  by JSW Projects Limited .
JPL, a part of the JSW group, is engaged in the business of manufacture of direct reduce iron/ sponge iron, coke dry quenching and captive power generation which are ultimately used in the manufacture of steel and steel products on a job work basis for JSW Steel Limited.
BMM, incorporated India, is engaged in the manufacture and sale of steel products including  iron ore pellets;  sponge iron;  TMT bars and  semis.
Detailed order of the CCI will follow.
Ministry of Science & Technology
N95 mask with nanoparticle coating developed using 3D printing technology
Researchers have developed a reusable, recyclable, washable, odourless, non-allergic and anti-microbial N95 mask by using 3D printing technology. The four-layer mask whose outer layer is made up of silicon has a shelf life of more than 5 years depending upon the use.
Apart from its well-known uses to prevent infections like COVID 19, the mask can also be used by workers in different industries where they are exposed to high volumes of dust like cement factory, brick kilns, cotton factories and pain industries. It can be modified according to the requirement by changing the filter configuration according to the place in which it will be used and can help prevent severe lung diseases such as SILICOSIS. A trademark and a patent have also been filed for the mask called Nano Breath.
A 4-layer filtration mechanism has been provided in the mask wherein the outer and first layer of the filter is coated with nanoparticles. The second layer is a high-efficiency particulate absorbing  filter, third layer is 100 µm filter and fourth layer is moisture absorbent filter.
Dr. Atul Thakur, Dr. Preeti Thakur, Dr. Lucky Krishnia, and Prof. P. B. Sharma, Dinesh Kumar research scholar from Amity University Haryana  and Prof. Rakesh Srivastava from University of Nebraska, USA have jointly developed this product that has immense potential as a prophylactic.
A Zetasizer Nano ZS, a facility supported by ‘Fund for Improvement of Science & Technology Infrastructure’  project of the Department of Science & Technology , Government of India which enables high temperature thermal analysis for ceramic materials and catalysis applications, has been used to carry out this work. It is a high performance, versatile system for measuring particle size, zeta potential, molecular weight, particle mobility and micro-rheology.
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SNC/RR
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Ministry of Defence
ALL WOMEN CYCLE EXPEDITION FROM WAR MEMORIAL, LONGEWALA TO NATIONAL WAR MEMORIAL, NEW DELHI
As a part of Swarnim Vijay Varsh celebrations, the Indian Air Force  organized an all women joint Service Cycling expedition from War Memorial, Longewala to National War Memorial, New Delhi. The expedition was flagged off on 25 Sep 21 by Air Vice Marshal Rohit Mahajan VM, Senior Officer-in-Charge Administration , HQ SWAC.
The 14 member team comprised of Sqn Ldr Snehal Satija , Sqn Ldr Suzata Yadav, Sqn Ldr Kritika Pande, Sqn Ldr Samidha Sharma, Sqn Ldr Misha Purshothaman, Flt Lt Megha Sharma, Flt Lt Shweta Priya, Capt Swati Rai, Capt Shivani, Capt Sonali Upadhyay, Lt Rajlakshmi Rathore, Lt Kirti Shukla, Flt Lt Nagma Parveen and Fg Offr Komal Rani.
In a span of 12 days the team covered a distance of 1009 km. The members of the team interacted with college students and school children enroute motivation them to join the armed forces. The team also interacted with villagers during these twelve days and spread awareness amongst them about women empowerment.
The team was received by Director General  Air Marshal K Anantharaman VSM at National War Memorial, New Delhi where they paid tribute to the fallen heroes. The team was later flagged in at Air Force Station, New Delhi by Air Officer-in-Charge Administration Air Marshal VPS Rana VSM. He congratulated the team for their determination and dedicated efforts ensuring completion of the expedition in stipulated time.
Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievances & Pensions
States & UTs can avail the Common Eligibility Test  to be conducted by NRA for job selection: Dr. Jitendra Singh
States and Union Territories can avail the Common Eligibility Test  to be conducted by National Recruitment Agency  for job selection, the decision for which was passed at the Union Cabinet meeting chaired by Prime Minister Sh Narendra Modi on Wednesday.
Union Minister of State , Development of North Eastern Region , MoS PMO, Personnel, Public Grievances, Pensions, Atomic Energy and Space, Dr Jitendra Singh, said that the CET score could be shared with the Recruiting Agencies in the State and Union Territory governments as well as Public Sector Undertakings  and also later on with the Private Sector. This, he said, would actually help the recruiting agencies including the State and Union Territory Governments to save the cost and time spent on recruitment, while at the same time also be convenient and cost-effective for the young job aspirants.
An arrangement in the form of Memorandum of Understanding  could be put in place for using the CET score by these agencies and these organisations, said Dr Jitendra Singh. Eventually, this could prove a win-win arrangement both for the employer as well as employee.
Dr Jitendra Singh further revealed that the DoPT and he himself are in touch with many State and Union Territory governments which have expressed their inclination to be a part of the sharing arrangement of Common Eligibility Test score. Most of the Chief Ministers are also quite enthusiastic and favourable to adopt this reform, he informed.
Hailing Prime Minister Narendera Modi’s personal intervention and indulgence without which this revolutionary decision could not have been possible, Dr Jitendra Singh said, this is going to prove to be a major reform to bring about ease of living for struggling youth and job aspirants. He said, it is also a reflection of the sensitivity and thoughtfulness with which the government works under the leadership of Prime Minister Modi.
Clearing apprehension in certain quarters, Dr Jitendra Singh said, for those who are appearing for the exam, relaxation in the upper age limit shall be given to candidates of SC/ST/OBC and other categories as per existing government policy. He also reiterated that the Common Eligible Test will have no correlation or incompatibility with the rules of recruitment like domicile etc. followed by certain States or Union Territories. Contrary to misgiving in certain quarters, the Common Eligibility Test will not be conducted only in Hindi and English language but will be conducted in 12 Indian languages to begin with, while gradually other languages of the 8th schedule will also be included.
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Prime Minister's Office
PM expresses happiness over commencement of services on two key stretches of the Purple Line of the Bengaluru Metro
The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi has expressed delight over commencement of services on two key stretches of the Purple Line of the Bengaluru Metro.
In reply to a tweet by the Union Minister Shri Hardeep Puri, the Prime Minister posted on X :
"Absolutely delighted by the commencement of services on two key stretches of the Purple Line of the Bengaluru Metro. This marks another significant step in enhancing ‘Ease of Living’ for the residents of Bengaluru."
Ministry of Finance
Cabinet approves Bilateral Memorandum of Understanding between Securities and Exchange Board of India and Manitoba Securities Commission, Canada
The Union Cabinet chaired by the Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi has approved the signing of Bilateral Memorandum of Understanding between Securities and Exchange Board of India and Manitoba Securities Commission, Canada.
Benefits:
- The MoU, inter alia, seeks a formal basis for cross-border co-operation in the area of securities regulations, would facilitate mutual assistance, contribute towards efficient performance of supervisory functions, aid in imparting technical domain knowledge and enable effective enforcement of the laws and regulations governing securities markets.
- The MoU would also make investors from Manitoba eligible for registration as an FPI with SEBI.
Impact:
Entities located in the province of Manitoba, Canada are desirous of registration as Foreign Portfolio Investor  with SEBI, for which one of the pre-conditions is that the securities market regulator of a foreign country / province should be a signatory to the International Organization of Securities Commissions’ Multilateral memorandum of Understanding , signing a bilateral MoU with SEBI is essential for permitting entities from Manitoba to be registered as FPI with SEBI. Around twenty Manitoba-=domiciled FPIs with total Assets Under Custody of Rs.2,665 crore are expected to benefit by signing of this bilateral MoU and would be eligible to continue investing in the Indian markets.
Ministry of Consumer Affairs, Food & Public Distribution
Early procurement of Paddy / Rice in all remaining States from today
Uniform specification for Fortified Rice Kernels for grade A &Common Rice for procurement of Fortified Rice Stocksalso issued for the first time
The Department of Food & Public Distribution has now allowed all remaining procuring States to commence / proceed with their procurement operations for Paddy / Rice in Kharif Marketing Season  2020-21  with effect from 28th September, 2020 itself. However, the commencement of procurement period in respect of Kerala  and that of Punjab and Haryana  will remain unchanged. This would ensure that farmers are facilitated in selling their produce at Minimum Support Price  expeditiously.
The Department of Food & Public Distribution hasissued the uniform specifications of food grains for Central Pool procurement for the ensuing Kharif Marketing Seasons  2020-21.These specifications as per standard practice have been issued in respect of Paddy,Rice and other coarse grains namely Jowar,Bajra,Maize and Ragi. These specifications also include standards of Rice for issue to States/UTs for distribution under TDPS and Other Welfare Schemes based on the uniform specifications of rice for KMS 2020-21.
It is for the first time that uniform specification for Fortified Rice Kernels for grade A & Common Rice have also been issued in case of procurement of Fortified Rice Stocks, of which 1% FRK should be blended with normal rice stock.The State Governments have been requested to ensure that wide publicity of the Uniform specifications is made among the farmers to ensure that they get due price for their produce and any rejection of the stocks is completely avoided.All States/Union Territories and Food Corporation of India have been advised that the procurement during KMS 2020-21 may be strictly in accordance with the uniform specifications. The Food Corporation of India and States Procurement Agencies have been directed to ensure hassle free procurement and Minimum Support Price  payments to farmers.
PIB Headquarters
CAA, NRC not against Muslims, Our government is committed to the development of Minorities: Ramadas Athawale
Reviewed the progress of social welfare schemes in Telangana
Union Minister of State for Social Justice & Empowerment Shri Ramdas Athawale said Citizenship Amendment Act  and the National Register of Citizens  not against Indian Muslims, development of Muslim community along with other minorities in the country has been the stand of the Union government.
The Minister said in the last 5 years  Rs. 2,918 crore has given to Telangana State for national Highways development by Ministry of Road Transport and Highways. And Rs.1230 crore has allotted for the development of state highways. Rs. 2457 crore for PM Sadak Yojana. The minister added that 23 national highways are passing through Telangana state.
The Minister said in Telangana state Scholarships has been given to 2. 85 Lakh SC students and 5.15 Lakh OBC students are getting scholarships. Near about 2100 crore has been spent for scholarships, he added.
Earlier, the Union Minister reviewed the progress of social welfare schemes and implementation of scholarships to SC/ST & OBC students in Telangana with the senior officials of Telangana State.
Ministry of Information & Broadcasting
Union MoS Shripad Naik Highlights Media's Vital Role in Democracy at ‘Vartalap’ by Press Information Bureau
Goa, 12 September 2023
Union Minister of State for Ports, Shipping and Waterways and Tourism, Shri Shripad Naik, inaugurated and addressed a ‘Vartalap’ organized by the Press Information Bureau, Panaji, today in Ponda, Goa. The Vartalap saw journalists, officials of Directorate of Information and Publicity and students of Parvatibai Chowgule College attend. During his address, The Minister underscored the significance of the media as the "Fourth Estate" in a democracy and its pivotal role in ensuring transparent and accountable governance.
Shri Naik commended the media's multifaceted role, stating that it not only informs and educates but also acts as a vigilant watchdog and holding those in power accountable for their actions. He emphasized the crucial role of a free and responsible media in fostering a transparent and accountable government, particularly in a democratic nation like India.
Union Minister went on to highlight the profound impact that the media can have on governance, especially in an era where information is readily accessible. He emphasized that the media's responsibility in improving governance has never been more significant.
Organized with active support from Antruz Patrakar Sangh, the ‘Vartalap’ session featured a diverse range of discussions:
- Reporting Stories on Persons with Disabilities: Taha Haaziq, Secretary, Goa State Commission for Persons with Disabilities, stressed the need for increased sensitivity towards Persons with Disabilities in media reporting, emphasizing the role of media and society in promoting inclusivity.
- Reporting Wildlife: Prem Kumar IFS, Deputy Conservator of Forests , emphasized the importance of balanced reporting when covering wildlife issues and the significance of consulting forest officers for accurate and responsible reporting, especially regarding wildlife crime.
- Goa’s Startup Ecosystem: Prasant D.S, CEO of Goa Startup and IT Promotion Cell, shared insights into the startup schemes of the Government of Goa and the Central government, highlighting that around 1040 startups are registered in Goa with DPIIT. The session also featured a talk by Dr.Roshan Naik, an entrepreneur and a beneficiary of the various support systems extended by both the State and Union Government.
- Editorial Lines in the Age of Social Media: Pramod Acharya, Editor of Prudent, discussed the challenges posed by disinformation in the age of social media and cautioned budding journalists to verify facts before disseminating information.
The ‘Vartalap’ also featured an exhibition on 9 years of Seva, Sushasan and Gareeb Kalyan, set up by Central Bureau of Communication, Goa. The exhibition highlighted various schemes, projects and achievements of the Government of India over the past nine years. It was keenly visited by all those in attendance.PIB Panaji | Gautam SK/S.Thakur/D.Rane
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Ministry of Agriculture &
Farmers Welfare
Cabinet approved Minimum Support Price of Copra for 2021 season
The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs, chaired by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, has given its approval for the Minimum Support Price  of copra for 2021 season.
The MSP for Fair Average Quality  of milling copra has been increased,by Rs.375/-, to Rs. 10335/- per quintal for 2021 season from Rs. 9960/- per quintal in 2020. The MSP for ball copra has been increased, by Rs.300/-, to Rs. 10,600/- per quintal for 2021 season from Rs. 10300/- per quintal in 2020. The declared MSP ensures a return of 51.87 percent for milling copra and 55.76 percent for ball copra over the all-India weighted average cost of production.
The approval is based on recommendations of the Commission for Agricultural Costs and Prices .
The increase in MSP for copra for 2021 season is in line with the principle of fixing the MSP at a level of at least 1.5 times the all India weighted average cost of production which was announced by the Government in the Budget 2018-19.
It assures a minimum of 50 percent as margin of profit as one of the important and progressive steps towards making possible doubling of farmers' incomes by 2022.
The National Agricultural Cooperative Marketing Federation of India Limited  and National Cooperative Consumer Federation of India Limited  will continue to act as Central Nodal Agencies to undertake price support operations at the MSP in the coconut growing States.
For 2020 season, Government has procured 5053.34 tonnes of ball copra and 35.58 tonnes of milling copra benefiting 4896 copra farmers.
Ministry of Health and Family Welfare
COVID-19 UPDATE
97.23 Cr. vaccine doses have been administered so far under Nationwide Vaccination Drive
15,981 new cases in the last 24 hours; less than 20,000 cases for past 8 days
Recovery Rate currently at 98.08%; Highest since March 2020
17,861 recoveries in the last 24 hours increases Total Recoveries to 3,33,99,961
Active cases account for less than 1% of total cases, currently at 0.59%; Lowest since March 2020
India's Active caseload stands at 2,01,632; lowest in 218 days
Weekly Positivity Rate  less than 3% for last 113 days
Daily positivity rate  less than 3% for last 47 days
58.98 cr Total Tests conducted so far